Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba were forced to withdraw from Inter Miami’s MLS clash with Toronto on Wednesday, a major blow for Tata Martino’s side.
Alba had ice on his right hamstring after coming off ten minutes before the end of the first half at DRV PNK Stadium.
Messi showed the same frustration minutes later when he handed over the armband and was substituted just 37 minutes after his return to MLS. He is believed to have suffered a muscle injury.
The 36-year-old was back in the squad after missing the team’s 5-2 loss at Atlanta on Saturday with what coach Martino described as “muscle fatigue.”
The loss further dented Miami’s hopes of reaching the playoffs, but Messi participated fully in practice on Tuesday and returned straight to the starting lineup.
Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been sent off in the MLS clash between Inter Miami and Toronto.
Messi hands the armband to DeAndre Yedlin as he leaves the field
Messi hadn’t played for Miami since Sept. 4 after taking international duty and missing both Atlanta’s loss and the team’s win over Kansas City.
Shortly after the double whammy, Facundo Farias gave Miami the lead as they look to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Messi was then seen walking down the tunnel at the DRV PNK stadium. He was walking unassisted but appeared to change something shortly before leaving the field. His body language indicated that his night was over.
Messi had not played for Miami since September 4 after being on international duty